DOLE-IX to celebrate 111th Labor Day

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-IX will hold Job and Livelihood Fairs on May 1, 2013 at the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) gymnasium, WMSU campus, Baliwasan, Zamboanga City to highlight the 111^th Labor Day celebration.

DOLE-IX Assistant Regional Director Virginia Bonbon said the activity aims to make the 111^th Labor Day celebration more meaningful.

This year’s Labor Day celebration has for its theme: “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa hamon ng Makabagong Panahon (Filipino Workers: Ready for the Challenges of the New Era).”

Bonbon said other major activities such as turnover of Starter Kits and Livelihood Grants, Diskwento Fair, and raffle draw will also be held to highlight Filipino workers’ economic and social achievements.

To officially commence the event, Bonbon said, a motorcade will be held in the major thorough fares in Zamboanga City which will start at 7:00 a.m. in front of WMSU main entrance along San Jose Road, Baliwasan with the different companies, labor groups, government agencies, and non-government organizations as participants. “This will be followed by an opening program,” she said.

Bonbon also disclosed that DOLE Undersecretary for Labor Relations and Social Dialogue Cluster head, Rebecca C. Chato, was invited to be the guest and keynote speaker of the said event.

The preparation of the celebration is facilitated by the Zamboanga City Tripartite Industrial Peace Council led by Ian Lahi. (PIA9)

ZNPPO confiscates 34 assorted firearms

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The elements of the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Police Office(ZNPPO) has confiscated 34 assorted firearms during the continuing implementation of Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Police Superintendent James B. Mejia, provincial director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Zamboanga del Norte Zamboanga del Norte, said of the 34 firearms confiscated, 14 firearms came from the Zamboanga del Norte Public Safety Company (ZNPSC) which conducted regular checkpoints in various strategic points throughout the province, while the rest were firearms turned-over by the different municipal police stations in the province.

Aside from the firearms confiscated from the operations conducted by the local police force, 43 high-powered firearms and 121 low-powered firearms were also surrendered by the gun-holders to the ZNPPO.

The Comelec gun ban has been implemented starting Jan. 13, 2013 until June 30, 2013.

In preparation for the upcoming election on May 13, Mejia said the PNP will continue its peacekeeping initiative to ensure the conduct of a peaceful political exercise.

The ZNPPO expects and augmentation force from the PNP Regional Command during the election period.

According to Mejia, his office is always in close coordination with the Comelec and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for a collaborative effort toward the conduct of a peaceful balloting in the province.

Recently, PNP Director-General Allan Purisima has included the province of Zamboanga del Norte in the list of 19 provinces placed under PNP’s “Areas of Concern” due to intense rivalry among the local candidates vying for various political positions in the coming elections. (PIA9)

DOLE’s OSPC helps out Sabah deportees

By Alma L. Tingcang

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The One-Stop Processing Center (OSPC for Displaced Persons from Sabah in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi has recently assisted another batch of deportees aboard M/V Mideast Express.

In an update report sent to DOLE Secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz, Ms. Mary Jane R. Amarado, Labor Communications Officer of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA9) said Secretary Baldoz was apprised of the situation by OWWA9 Regional Director Hassan T. Jumdain on the arrival of the deportees.

“The 155 deportees, who had served jail sentence for lack of proper documents are composed of 111 male adult, 41 female adult, and three kids, two boys and a girl,” Baldoz said after receiving the OWWA report.

Six evacuation centers has been established by the Provincial Crisis Management Committee (PCMC) chaired by Governor Sadikul A. Sahali, one of which is located at Tubig Tanah, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi where the deportees are being housed. This effort is in anticipation of the influx of deportees and refugees resulting from the recent Lahad Datu standoff.

Amarado said the OSPC, among others, facilitates the smooth arrival of deportees, provides various services like TESDA training, POEA processing of OEC, OWWA membership and reintegration services such as entrepreneurship training, skills enhancement, livelihood assistance, capacity building and referral for local employment. (ALT-PIA9/With report from Mary Jane R. Amarado/OWWA9)

DILG-IX releases P500-T for SaLinTubig-funded projects in Rizal town

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-IX has recently released P500 thousand to Rizal town in Zamboanga del Norte for its Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig (SaLinTubig)-funded project.

The amount represented the second tranche of the P1 million worth water system project implemented under the SaLinTubig program.

DILG-IX Information Officer Lemuel Mejares disclosed that the project, which started last year, got its first release of the same amount on Sept. 27, 2012.

“Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil traveled all the way to Rizal, Zamboanga del Norte to personally hand the check to Municipal Treasurer Estrella D. Cunanan,” Mejares said.

Cunanan has expressed her gratitude for the grant saying “the fund is of great help in the completion of the project.”

Project Development Management Unit (PDMU) Chief Moh. Ali H. Hasan bared that the release of the second tranche would have been done earlier this year had the municipality submitted the requirements/documents on time. “However, this must be pushed through considering that this is not covered under election ban,” he said.

Hasan also requested the municipal engineer to submit updates of the project with photos from time to time.

The PDMU will also be conducting ocular visits to SaLinTubig-funded projects for 2012 in other recipient-municipalities. (PIA9)

DOST-9 SETUP extends fund assistance to baker of native bread, food in Isabela

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – A local bakery in Isabela City that serves native Tausog pastries and other native delicacies will soon get an upgrade with more than half a million fund support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-IX.

In a press release, the science and technology department in region nine said that it recently released the innovation system support assistance amounting to P 604,500.00 to Isabela Seaport General Merchant.

This local bakery was established in 2008, which has gradually taken its foothold as the native Tausug’s favorite bread and food service in town.  The bakeshop offers sumptuous bread products and tasty local delicacies like junay (spicy peppered rice), waked (sticky rice), pasung and tabid-tabid (a.k.a. chikalang).

The project entitled “Upgrading of Bakery Equipment and Facilities” was intended to benefit the Isabela Seaport Bakery and Restaurants through the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

In this project, DOST-IX’s interventions include system improvement, product improvement, manpower development through trainings on food safety and good manufacturing practices, and process improvement.  

The project assistance covers the acquisition of bakeshop equipment such as dough roller, oven with 24 plates, bread slicer, spiral mixer, cake mixer, stainless steel stove, steel racks (36 plates cap), stainless steel working table and planza.

According to the DOST, through the project, the firm is expected to increase its volume of production by 30%; create local jobs; increase income by at least 30%; develop at least two new product lines; meet customers’ demand of the products in the market; and acquire equipment and facilities needed to improve quality of bread and pastries.

 

SETUP is a nationwide strategy to encourage and assist micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in implementing technological innovations and improvements in their operations to boost their productivity and competitiveness.

DOST-IX further announced that interested parties may visit or call DOST-Regional Office IX, located at Pettit Barracks, Zamboanga City with telephone numbers (062) 991-1024. Also, they may visit the Provincial S&T Center (PSTC) in Upper Turno, Dipolog City with telephone numbers (065) 212-2244; the Provincial S&T Center (PSTC) in Rizal Avenue, Pagadian City with telephone number (062) 925-1152; and the Provincial S&T Center (PSTC) at 2/F Faundo Bldg., National Highway, Poblacion, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay with telephone numbers (062) 333-2793. (PIA9)

Veterinary Office gives out livestock to farmers in Basilan

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The provincial government of Basilan through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) has given out some 50 heads of livestock to farmers in Basilan that will boost farmers’ productivity and the local livestock industry.

The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian said that animals dispersed included 10 heads of cattle, 10 heads of carabao and 30 heads of goat to livestock farmers of Hji. Muhtamad, Akbar, Unkaya Pukan, and Lantawan municipalities and to Isabela and Lamitan cities.

This was conducted last March 28, 2013 at OPV Tabuk, Isabela City, Basilan.

Veterinary Dr. Surhayda T. Aguisanda of Basilan said that the aim of carabao dispersal was to support and provide farmers the main source of draft animals so as to help them in their farm activities. 

She added that the office also supported cattle-raisers to give them extra income and to help meet the urgent demand for high protein diet.

She said that part of the program is goat dispersal, “which aims to support development of dairy goat industry so as to have more nutritious dairy food to lessen malnutrition and increase goat production in the province.”

The OPV hopes that the program would have significant impact on the farmers of Basilan especially along poverty alleviation and improved standard of living. The program also supports the local livestock industry towards economic development of Basilan Province.

Aguisanda stressed that with sufficient supply of beef for local market, this will eventually lower malnutrition and at the same time generate of local employment. (OPV/PIA9)

RDC IX holds consultation on 2011-2016 PDP

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY - The members of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-IX have convened here recently for the regional consultation on the 2011-2016 Philippine Development Plan (PDP).

The council tackled the different regional issues such as the lack of economic growth, poverty, low unemployment and under employment rates, low export, low agricultural productivity, unstable peace and order situation, untapped mineral resources, underdeveloped agricultural and urban lands, inadequate airport and seaport equipment facilities, low funding priority for projects, less irrigated area, lack of health financing and health care programs, inadequate supply of electricity, low crime solution efficiency rate, low tax and non-tax revenues, and lack of housing projects for those incapable of  building their own.

RDC-IX chair Mayor Evelyn T. Uy has expressed confidence that the participating agencies/organizations from the government and private sectors, state universities and colleges, academe, non-government organizations (NGOs) could give good inputs to the workshop the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)-IX would be facilitating in order to come up with appropriate solutions to the above issues and problems.

NEDA-IX project monitoring staff director Roderick Planta discussed with the council members the inclusive growth framework and plan updating including the results matrix.

Moreover, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) presented the Mindanao 2020 Development Plan followed by an audio-visual presentation on the Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Development Plan for 2011 to 2016.

In order to properly address these issues, the council conducted a workshop by dividing the group into four committees, namely, the Development Administration Committee headed by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM)-IX Regional Director Nilda Cemine, Agri-Industrial Development Committee led by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-IX Regional Director Nasrullah Manzur,  Social Development Committee headed by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-IX Regional Director Zenaida Arevalo, and Infrastructure Development Committee chaired by Department of Public works and Highways (DPWH)-IX Regional Director Jorge Sebastian Jr. (PIA9)  

GSIS extends deadline for GSP applications to May 31

 By Alma L. Tingcang

PAGADIAN CITY - The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced that the  deadline for filing of application for the GSIS scholarship program  is extended until May 31, 2013.

In a press statement, GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara said the extension of the deadline would give more time to qualified GSIS members to prepare the requirements in applying for the program.

Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS branch head here said the scholarship grant, dubbed GSIS College Scholarship Program (GSP), seeks to help GSIS members especially those with the lowest annual basic salary in the government pay scale, to send their children to colleges and universities that provide quality education.

Under the GSP guidelines, children of GSIS members may be nominated to the program if they are accepted as incoming college freshmen for Academic Year 2013-2014 in schools accredited by the Commission on Higher Education. The list of schools can be accessed in the GSIS website at  www.gsis.gov.ph.

Active and regular GSIS members with a salary grade of 24 or below, or its equivalent job level, are qualified to join the program if they have at least three (3) years of government service and have up-to-date premium payments for the last six (6) months.

GSP application forms are available at any GSIS branch office or downloadable from the GSIS website.  A member’s certificate of employment and a certification from the school that the scholar-designee has passed the entrance examination / screening / evaluation and qualified to enroll as college freshman for AY 2013-2014 must accompany the application forms. (PIA9)

32 deportees finish TESDA reflex massage training

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Thirty two Filipino deportees from Malaysia recently received their  Certificates of Training signed  by no less than Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General,  Secretary Joel J. Villanueva, as they graduated from a three-day training course on reflexology massage.

The activity was the initiative of Jamila Arasid, Center Head- Processing Center for Displaced Persons (PCDP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in partnership with TESDA.

“We conducted the training para naman productive and stay nila dito at para na rin magkaroon sila ng skill na pwede nilang gawing hanap buhay (We conducted the training to make their stay here productive and to provide them with livelihood and skills training that they can make use of to earn a living),” the active center head said.

“Nakaka antig ng damdamin dahil some of them are first time graduates (It’s so heart warming, because some of them are first time graduates),” Arasid said.

TESDA Regional Director Engr. Lorenzo Macapili during the simple graduation ceremony said “salamat sa inyong willingness to learn, at sa attention,” as he encouraged the participants to allow or open themselves to similar opportunities being offered not only by TESDA but by other service agencies of the government as well.

“Pag may oportunidad, join lang ng join (If there’s opportunity, keep joining). Go for continuous skills enhancement, education and training,” Macapili emphasized.

One deportee-participant- Jocelyn Gabunday of Silang Cavite in her learning testimonial said: “Yaman itong natutunan natin, wag natin baliwalain. Dahil sa bagong kaalamang ito, maari natin itong gamitin para kumita at tumulong sa kapwa (This learning is a treasure that we should not take for granted. We can use this new acquired skill to earn a living and to help others).”

She gave her sincere appreciation to DSWD and TESDA, specifically to TESDA trainer Winfred Turco, for being patient with them and for the rigid training on reflexology massage.

“First time ko po na nakapag attend sa buong buhay ko ng training na napaka detalyado, talagang siniguro nila na lalabas tayong mga eksperto sa training na ito (This is the first time in my entire life to attend a training that is so detailed, they made sure that we emerged as experts from this training),”  Gabunday concluded.

The simple graduation rite was conducted at PCDP in Mampang. (PIA9)

Jobs fair, turnover of SPES checks to cap 111th Labor Day celebration in ZamboSur

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – Anchored on the theme, “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon (Filipino workers: Ready for the challenges of the new era),”    jobs fair and turnover of Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) will highlight the 111^th Labor Day celebration on May 1 at the Gaizano Food Court this city.

Labor and Employment Office chief Lourdes B. Amores said the special event would start with a motorcade around the city to be participated in by the different government agencies, non-government organizations, private establishments, recruitment agencies and other stakeholders.

Amores disclosed that 12 local private establishments and three recruitment agencies are joining the jobs fair.

Aside from the local employment, 776 vacant positions for overseas employment are in store for lucky jobs seekers.

Meanwhile, a total of 540 SPES checks amounting to more than P 1.6 million will be distributed to the local government units of Pagadian City and Ramon Magsaysay, Blancia College in Molave, Southern Mindanao Colleges (SMC) and JH Cerilles State College Molave Campus.

On the same occasion, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will also distribute application forms for skills assessment while the National Statistics Office (NSO) will offer extended services to facilitate the issuance of security paper (SECPA) application.

The lady labor chief also urged all government offices/agencies, private establishments and other stakeholders to hang streamers/tarpaulins in their respective offices/establishments to drum up public awareness of the celebration. (PIA9)  

DILG IX to conduct human rights-based local water and sanitation governance forum

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – A forum on human rights-based local water and sanitation governance is slated to be held on April 30, 2013 at Hotel Guillermo this city.

This forum, which is spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-IX through its Water and Sanitation Services Unit (WSSU), will be attended by participants from the municipalities of Alicia, Payao and Tungawan of Zamboanga Sibugay, Lapuyan, Midsalip and Tigbao of Zamboanga del Sur, and Kalawit, Katipunan and Sindangan of Zamboanga del Norte.

Lemuel Mejares, information officer of DILG-IX, also disclosed that representatives from the municipalities of Kapatagan and Wao of Lanao del Sur, and Guindulungan, Mangudadatu, Sultan Kudarat and Upi of Maguindanao are also attending the said forum.

Invited speakers to the forum are representatives from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), National Water Resources Board (NWRB) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The forum will center on topics/issues on human rights based-local water governance including the different Cs: corruption, capacity-building, culture and conduct of the localized water governance game set.

There will also be presentation/discussion of successful human rights local water governance interventions and tools like Localized Customer Service Code, Municipal Water Supply, Sewerage and Sanitation Sector Plan (MW4SP), community organizing and many more.

Mejares said “the primary objective of the forum is to promote the results/gains of tested and proven interventions to other integrated municipalities under the “Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig (SaLinTubig) [Sufficient and Safe Water]” and Bottom-up Planning and Budgeting (BUPB) programs of the national government, and more specifically to share the knowledge products developed that can be adopted by the provinces and municipalities in implementing their water and sanitation programs.”

At the end of the forum, the participants are expected to promote and apply the interventions under the human rights-based local water governance toolbox in their respective municipalities.(DILG9)

P-Noy ground breaks Tourism Road Project in Dipolog City

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY - President Benigno Aquino III led the groundbreaking for the road improvement and upgrading in Barangay Cogon, Dipolog City last week as part of the administration’s efforts in boosting tourism in the region.

The 14-kilometer road improvement from the junction of Barangay Cogon all the way to OISCA Park, a Japanese park, is prioritized under the Department of Tourism-Department of Public Works and Highways (DOT-DPWH) Convergence Program.

DPWH-IX Information Officer Ms. Ma. Carla Miñoza said the P355-million project will help boost tourism as it leads to Sungkilaw Falls, one of Zamboanga del Norte’s hidden tourism potentials. She added that a boost in tourism industry translates to more job opportunities and economic improvement with investors seen to bring their money for the development of the area.

Of the 14 kilometers, Miñoza said 11.113 kilometers will be considered in the proposed 2014 DPWH budget, which is roughly P256 million. The agency will also be looking for other possible source of fund to finish the project.

President Aquino was assisted by DPWH Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo and DPWH IX Regional Director Jorge Sebastian Jr. during the groundbreaking rites.

Also present during the affair were Secretary Mar Roxas of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Mayor Evelyn Uy of Dipolog City, barangay leaders and residents of Cogon and the men and women of the DPWH-IX.

The road improvement project is in support of the government’s tourism infrastructure development program as mandated by R.A. 9583 vis-à-vis the inclusive growth vision under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP). (PIA9)

One-stop processing center set up for Sabah repatriates in Turtle Islands

 By Alma L. Tingcang

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Welfare Office No. 9, in cooperation with the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) has established a One-Stop Processing Center (OSPC) for Sabah Displaced Persons (DPs)  in Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi on April 4, 2013.

Photo by: Mary Jane R. Amarado

Labor Communications Officer Mary Jane R. Amarado in a press statement said the Regional CMC under ARMM Governor  Mujiv S. Hataman acted upon the request letter of DSWD Secretary Corazon J. Soliman to DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz for the creation of the center.

The CMC assessed the possible influx of returning undocumented Filipinos in Taganak, Turtle Islands being the closest municipality to Sabah and reachable by speedboat in just one hour.

Ms. Amarado said within a period of one month, a total of 990 DPs were recorded by CMC since March 9 to March 29. Filipino evacuees fleeing Sabah arrived in Poblacion Taganak, Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi  on board M/L Fatima Sherin.

Hassan T. Jumdain, OWWA9 Regional Director and head of the OSPC Special Operations—Sulu & Tawi-Tawi, together with the Regional CMC Chair, Assistant Secretary Sharifa Pearlsia A. Dans of the DILG-ARMM, led the composite team to carry out the special mission to establish an OSPC in the above-mentioned municipality. 

The newly established OSPC is manned by representatives from DSWD, DOH, OCD, DTI & DOLE-OWWA who immediately cater to the needs of the DPS and assess them for appropriate interventions.

Amarado said Jumdain, who personally interviewed the DPs disclosed that the cost per trip ranges from 1,500 to 2,000 Malaysian Ringgit.  “There is no regular transport from Taganak to Bongao, therefore, the DPs accumulate from over a hundred or more before a navy ship ferries them to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.” Jumdain added.  

The OSPC will also facilitate the provision of legal documents for those who wish to return to Sabah while those who opt to remain in the country will be assisted with livelihood and other social services.

It can be recalled that in 2005, Malacanang enjoined all government agencies to address such situation following a massive crackdown in Sabah through an organized, integrated and systematic welfare and assistance program to extend the necessary help to affected overseas Filipinos designating the Department of the Labor and Employment as the lead agency.   (FPG/ALT/PIA9/with report from Mary Jane R. Amarado/OWWA9)

Peace covenant signing ensures honest and orderly elections, says CSOs

By Gideon C. Corgue

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur – Stakeholders are optimistic that with the signing of the peace covenant, all candidates of this town will adhere to uphold a peaceful and safe balloting on May 13, 2013.

The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army (PA), Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG),  and church and religious sector recently spearheaded a covenant signing ceremony with the local candidates from the Liberal Party  (LP) and Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC)at the Municipal Function Hall this municipality.

DILG Provincial Director Abcede Asjali said the presence of everyone was a manifestation of support to safe, accurate and fair election.

“The presence of our stakeholders, candidates and public gave us an assurance that there will be an honest, orderly and peaceful election not only in Labangan but in the province as well,” Abcede declared. 

Abcede also urged the public to help monitor the compliance with the election peace pact of all candidates vying for local positions in the province.

Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office’s (ZSPPO)Assistant Provincial Director for Operations Jalilul Bandahala lauded the CSO’s initiative in a bid to ensure the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections in the municipality. He also urged the candidates to observe Comelec rules and regulations governing the 2013 elections.

Zamboanga del Sur Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting chairman Father Felix Tigoy said “the signing of peace covenant is a manifestation of the local candidates’ sincere cooperation with the stakeholders to have a peaceful and successful exercise of electoral process.”

“Manghinaut ako nga ang mga kandidato sa LP pinanguluhan ni incumbent mayor Wilson Nandang ug ang NPC, pinanguluhan ni incumbent Vice Mayor Ukol Talumpa magpahigayon sa piniliay nga magmalinawon (I am hoping that the candidates of LP led by re-electionist Mayor Wilson Nandang and NPC, led by incumbent Vice Mayor Ukol Talumpa to hold the election peacefully),” Tigoy said.

Uma Fih Salam Executive Director Sultan Abdulmaguid Maruhom was elated with the cooperation of the two political camps in the supporting the peace covenant.

“We thank the candidates for unanimously supporting the election covenant.  Indeed, this is a sign of their maturity as politicians in Labangan,” Maruhom said.

UCCP pastor Allan Patadlas said he was happy with the signing of peace covenant saying, “it upholds the principle of democracy.”

Labangan was previously declared an “immediate area of concern” by the poll body because of some violent election-related incidents in the past. (PIA9) 

Basilan completes 8 PAMANA projects, 13 more on-going

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has turned-over completed PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) projects in Basilan last April 13.

At least eight projects were completed and turned-over to the local government units, each amounting to P1.5 million.

OPAPP officials also said thirteen more projects are ongoing.

Hadzer Birowa, OPAPP project assistant for PAMANA projects said the projects started in 2012 and the ongoing projects are already 79% to 90% complete.

“There are two categories in our PAMANA projects here in Basilan—those projects under PAMANA PDC (Peace and Development Communities) which are for MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) communities and under PAMANA Pillar 3 projects,” Birowa said.

He explained that PAMANA framework is anchored on three complementary strategic pillars that define core interventions to achieve lasting peace. He said that under the Pillar III component, the projects are designed to address sub-regional challenges, including constraints to regional economic development and economic integration of developing areas with the more progressive areas, and inter-regional connectivity improvements, which includes investing on agri-industrial enterprises, coastal development initiatives, and infrastructure (e.g. road networks, electrification, post-harvest facilities, farm-to-market roads).

The other components of PAMANA are Pillar I (Laying the foundation for peace through policy reform and legislative action) is where development interventions are pursued like housing, ancestral domain, banking, and in other areas (e.g. IDP shelter assistance, mining/timber licensing agreements in IP areas).

Pillar II (Facilitating delivery of basic services at the community level through community driven development and community livelihood interventions) shapes families and communities by concentrating on health, education and livelihood programs (e.g. community driven development [CDD) programs, such as Kalahi CIDSS, DAR-ARC).

Birowa said that 80% of the P36 million total costs of the projects under Pillar 3 for PDC areas were already released to the local government.

The completed projects are community learning centers at Canibungan in Lantawan, Tuburan proper in Mohamad Ajul, Bohe Basa in Tipo-Tipo, and at Bohe Suyak in Ungkaya Pukan; rock coast way construction at Samal Village in Maluso; and improvement and road rehabilitation projects at Pamucalin in Lantawan and Lower Sinagkapan in Tuburan.

The ongoing projects are the following: Bohelebbeng Core Shelter, Parangbasak water system, Bato Lamitan mini ice plant, Lubukan multi-purpose hall, Upper Sinangkapan learning center, Tapiantana learning center, Cabcaban water system, Taberlongan learning center, Bubuan water system, Upper Mahayahay learning center, Kuhun Lennuh road rehabilitation, Calang Canas multi-purpose hall, and Materling multi-purpose hall.

During the turnover ceremony, OPAPP’s Bangsamoro office Undersecretary Atty. Jose I. Lorena said that meaningful autonomy is possible in the ARMM, especially under the leadership of the President Benigno S. Aquino III. He disclosed that the Bangsamoro office has already released more than 650 million pesos for various projects in the ARMM.

Tahira Ismael-Sansawi, provincial administrator was emotional when she cited the role of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, saying that all the projects the province is benefiting today was realized as fruit of the sweat and blood of former fighters who fought for the Bangsamoro people.

She explained that the process of selecting projects in various areas in the province underwent consultations with stakeholders to include the MNLF, local leaders, and the communities.

Provincial Engr. Tahir I. Latip said that the objective of the PAMANA projects is to create resilient and self-reliant communities, mostly in conflict-affected communities in Basilan. “This is a national program to uplift the living conditions of the people, hoping to contribute to the attainment of lasting peace in Mindanao,” he said.

Local government officials are optimistic and hoping that the PAMANA projects will boost economic activity and capacity of the people towards working for building peaceful communities in Basilan. (PIA9)

Search for outstanding private employees launched in Dipolog

By Mary May A. Abellon

Photo by: Dave Magdayao 

DIPOLOG CITY - The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) in partnership with the city government of Dipolog, Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) Zamboanga del Norte field office and sponsors from private sectors launched on Saturday the 2013 Search for Outstanding Employees in the private sector.

The search seeks to recognize deserving workers in the city aimed at promoting strong morale and efficiency of workers.

“We are here to recognize ordinary but important members of the society,” said Nellie R. Saberon, TIPC Vice-chairman for Management Sector.

“There are three sectors given importance in tripartism. We have the worker, employer and the government,” explained Angelita S. Collyer, head of the Livelihood and Skills Development Enhancement Center (LSDEC).

The search has five categories, namely, the sales clerk category sponsored by the Dipolog Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), utility worker category sponsored by Rural Transit of Mindanao Inc. (RTMI), tricycle driver category with TVI Resource Development Inc. as sponsor, food attendant category sponsored by Rural Bank of Rizal, and the household service worker or kasambahay sponsored by city government of Dipolog.

Awardees shall receive P5,000.00 and a plaque of recognition.

All nominations will be accepted until May 6, 2013 and the winners will be awarded on May 30, 2013 during the “Pasidungog ug pasalamat (Tribute to the Workers) night,” which is the culminating activity of the Labor Month celebration.

The nominees will be judged based on their work performance, impact of their behavioral performance and character, social responsibility, and promotion of good labor and management relations.

Mr. Roberto P. Reyes of Dipolog Chamber of Commerce & Industry was acknowledged for his brilliant idea to include the “kasambahay category in the search.”

When asked to give a statement, Dr. Dino Joey Cordova of the Rural Bank of Rizal said that the said search would keep the workers motivated and be on the right track of righteousness, integrity and productivity.

Mayor Evelyn T. Uy expressed her deep gratitude to all sponsors for always being supportive of the activities pursued by the city government. 

“Employers and employees are just like family wherein they grow together,” Mayor Uy declared.

She shared that her three original employees when she started her business in the 80’s are still with her until now.

“I have the confidence entrusting to them the management of my business even if I’m always out of town,” Mayor Uy added.

Chief Labor Employment Officer Mr. Henry P. Tianero of DOLE Zamboanga del Norte field office was also commended for his initiative and active role in the promotion of gainful employment opportunities throughout the province. (PIA9)

Zamboanga island brgys receive pump boats from city gov’t

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Eight island barangays of Zamboanga City recently received motorized pump boats from the city government to help improve mobility from the island to the mainland.

City Information Officer Sheila Covarrubias in a press statement said the pumpboats will not only enhance mobility but can also “be used during emergency situations, for patrol purposes or even to ferry teachers to and from the islands.”

Covarrubias said the pump boats given to the eight island villages were in addition to the multi-cab vehicles already given to the same barangays early this year.

“Costing P146,000 each, the motorized pump boat has twin engines with 16 horse power and made of Honda Mega brand,” the city spokesperson said.

Covarrubias disclosed that Mayor Celso Lobregat himself led the turnover of said pump boats to concerned island-barangay beneficiaries, held recently at the Paseo Del Mar.

“Lobregat during the turnover asked the barangay chairmen to make proper use as well as to take good care of the watercrafts,” she said. (PIA9)

PCF-funded eco-tourism pool in Alicia town is 90% complete, says DILG-IX

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – Using its P1 million prize from winning the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the municipality of Alicia has embarked on building an eco-tourism swimming pool to promote tourism in the municipality and, at the same time, to generate some income.

DILG-IX Information Officer Lemuel Mejares said in a press release the swimming pool, which is 25-meter x 10-meter in size and five feet deep, is about to be finished based on the recent assessment by DILG-IX regional monitoring team.

“This is not only an avenue to promote our tourism but also an income-generating project of the LGU,” said Alicia Municipal Mayor Richard V. Tiu Sr.

Mayor Tiu together with Municipal Engineer Edmund A. Tan and Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator Silverio O. Panes walked the monitoring team to the eco-tourism pool built near the municipal hall.

The project cost totaled 2.8 million of which PI million came from Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) received by the municipality from winning the SGH.

This PCF is an incentive fund to LGUs that passed the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH). The fund can be used to construct school buildings, rural health units, tourism facilities, flood control projects, solid waste management facilities, etc.

Funds are still coming from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to complete the project with counterparts from the municipality.

“We are now working on the excavation for the pipelines that will supply large volume of water to the pool,” Engr. Tan said.

Tan believed the pool would be fully operational within the year.

Mayor Tiu, on the other hand, recalled that there was a time the municipality had produced a “Palaro” champion in swimming and he aims to produce another champion with the town’s new swimming pool. (PIA9)

Zamboanga City, Piñan town bag “Local Legislative Awards”

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – Two local government units (LGUs) in Zamboanga Peninsula region have emerged as national winners of the 2012 Local Legislative Award (LGA), the regional office of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-IX announced recently.

Bagging the national awards are the city council of Zamboanga City and the municipal council of Piñan town in Zamboanga del Norte.

DILG-IX Information Officer Lemuel Mejares told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that Zamaboanga City had bested other highly urbanized cities while Piñan town had beaten other towns in the fourth to sixth class category.

These LGUs underwent a series of assessment and evaluation starting from the provincial level up to the national level by a committee chaired by the DILG with Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and civil society organizations as members.

LGA is designed to give recognition to Sangguniang Panlungsod (city council) and/or Sangguniang Bayan (municipal council) which exhibited exemplary performance in legislating measures that help build the foundation of a meaningful local administration geared toward the attainment of desirable socio-economic-environmental outcomes.

The criteria for judging include effectiveness of the legislative agenda, effectiveness of the legislative tracking system, availability of the legislative documents, performance efficiency of the Sanggunian, and quality of office setup and staff complement.

DILG-IX Regional Director Paisal o. Abutazil said: “We are proud of the fact the region 9 LGUs bagged two of the four awards in the national level which only showed that the local legislation aspect of governance has been given prime importance, without having to set aside other equally important concerns in local governance, all for the good of the constituencies.”

“It is our hope that with this very positive development, the LGUs of Zamboanga City and the municipality of Pinan will be able to inspire other local legislatures in the Zamboanga Peninsula to perform better and excel not only in the legislative process but likewise in every aspect of local governance. This does not only apply to the Local Legislative Award but with other awards and incentives programs being initiated and implemented by DILG,” Abutazil further said.

The winners received cash prizes and plaques during the national awarding ceremonies held recently at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Pasay City. (FPG/PIA9)